RAPE CRISIS SYNDROME

General Information

DEFINITION--The physical and emotional aftereffects of rape. The term rape refers to forcible sexual intercourse with an unwilling partner. Rape involves varying degrees of physical and psychological trauma. In the majority cases the rapist is a man and the victim is a woman.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Genitals; rectum; mouth; brain.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--All ages and both sexes, but more common in females.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Immediately following rape:

• Physical injuries such as cuts, bruises or other injuries, including vaginal and rectal tears.
• Fear, anger, crying or unusual behavior such as laughter.
• No outward emotional signs (sometimes).

Aftereffects (may be weeks to months):

• Feelings of self-blame and guilt.
• Depression and withdrawal, even from family and friends.
• Mood swings; feelings of grief, shame, revenge.
• Loss of appetite.
• Fear of intercourse, fear of men.
• Nightmares, sleep disorders.
• Fear of being alone.

CAUSES--Rape is extremely traumatizing. All rape victims suffer physical and psychological aftereffects.

RISK INCREASES WITH--Any victim of rape or attempted rape.

HOW TO PREVENT

• The scope of rape prevention is complex and involves individuals, society and government.
• There is no prevention for rape crisis syndrome.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES----A general physical examination and pelvic examination will be conducted (these exams follow specific medical guidelines). A report is normally made to local law enforcement personnel.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Emergency medical assessment and care will be provided for your physical injuries.
• Medical personnel will discuss with you the risks of pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B and other infections; what preventive measures there are available; and what follow-up tests may be required.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Pregnancy.
• Sexually transmitted disease.
• Emotional trauma that may last years.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Most victims take a long time to feel like they are normal again, some never do, and some say that they are a completely changed person.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• Ask for assistance from a Rape Crisis Center (or similar agency). They can provide immediate support and help you through the urgent medical, emotional and legal necessities.
• Arrange for counseling or psychological help. This is important for your emotional recovery. Don't just try to put the matter out of your mind and don't try to "go it alone." Suppressing your feelings can increase distress.
• Keeping a journal or diary about your feelings, thoughts and reactions may be helpful. Talk over your feelings with trusted friends and family.
• Prepare yourself as much as possible for legal proceedings that force you to relive the trauma and may cause additional emotional upsets.

MEDICATION--Your doctor may prescribe:

• Antibiotics, if venereal infection is suspected or diagnosed.
• Hormones to prevent pregnancy ("day-after pill").
• Sedatives or tranquilizers for a short time to reduce anxiety.
• Tetanus prophylaxis.

ACTIVITY--Resume your normal life as quickly as possible.

DIET--No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

• You or someone you know has been raped.
• Emotional and/or physical problems worsen, or are not improved with treatment.